Space, Local Business and the Sharing Economy

The Sharing Economy (sometimes also referred to as the peer-to-peer economy, mesh, collaborative economy, collaborative consumption) is a socio-economic system built around the sharing of human and physical assets. (wikipedia) 

Individuals share their homes. We share transportation, tools and advice. The Sharing Economy is a willingness driven market. I've purchased something you want to use and I'm willing to lend it to you, sometimes for a fee. It's interesting to see how much we have to share. Listing spare bedrooms, any asset really, so someone you don't know can make use of your property or knowledge.  It's interesting to see small businesses on the sidelines.

For big business a new trend has emerged. A business model known as Open Innovation. Big companies share knowledge and unused patents to bring new products and services to the market. But we're not talking about big companies with pools of patents. We're talking about local businesses. I wonder how your business could share unused merchandise, inventory, knowledge and space to create unbelievable value for an organization that needs it. It could be a charity, a school, another small business, elderly blonde women - anything.

Could your business double as a drop spot for a local shoe drive? Could you reward customers with discounts based on charitable donations, not repeat business?

Don't think 'what can we do for the community?' in dollar donation terms. How could you share your space, your inventory, your knowledge to donate value to the community? More value than you could donate in dollars.

Happy sharing.